Ventures - University of Queensland

Ventures reflects the entrepreneurial spirit of our community. While you can’t predict the future, you can develop the knowledge, networks and skills to pivot between current and emerging careers and flourish wherever life takes you.

ABOUT VENTURES

ilab Pitch Night Chapter 1 is coming 21 May

We can't wait to see our ilab founders back on the Princess Theatre stage in May 2026 - find out more about them. The ilab Accelerator is a UQ flagship program designed to fast-track UQ student, staff, and alumni startups.

Empower Demo Day - Thursday 7 May

Join us for an inspiring evening celebrating the next generation of women entrepreneurs. Empower Demo Day 2026 brings together women founders at the start of their startup journeys, showcasing early‑stage ventures and ideas across a range of industries.

Meet Varun, our 2026 Chief Student Entrepreneur

Varun’s journey started in a UQ Ventures program. As he described, as something he initially saw as “extra” alongside university ended up shaping his entire university experience. When asked what success would look like at the end of his year as Chief Student Entrepreneur, Varun keeps it simple. “More students get involved with Ventures and realise what’s possible.”

The LeadHers Foundation Program is a 4-week introductory program designed for students and early-career staff and alumni who want to build confidence, capability, and leadership skills. Participants take part in weekly, interactive workshops, with each session focusing on a different skill that supports personal and professional growth.

Meet founders, explore roles - Startup Mixer

On Monday 2 June, our Startup Mixer will connect UQ students with local startup founders and early‑stage teams. Chat one‑on‑one, hear short reverse pitches, and explore internships, casual roles, and startup career pathways.

What's it really like to launch a startup at UQ?

At UQ, we’re continuously impressed by the entrepreneurial spirit and startup ideas that come out of our UQ Ventures community.

Tom Bizzell, a Bachelor of Commerce / Bachelor of Laws (Honours) student and 2022 UQ’s Chief Student Entrepreneur tells us about his startup Wakeshare and his experiences with UQ Ventures.

Own the unknown